Monsoon season is a blessing for most people, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when travelling. During this season, roads become vulnerable with water logging, slippery surfaces, and potholes, which can cause accidents. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions to ensure a safe journey.
One of the first things to check before travelling during monsoon season is the condition of the tyres. Tyre treads play an important role in providing grip on the road, and worn or bald tyres are more prone to sliding or aquaplaning. It is recommended to ensure that the tyre tread depth is at least 2mm to ensure optimal contact between the rubber and the road.
Waterlogged streets are another issue faced during the monsoon season, and it is crucial to assess the depth of the water before moving forward. If it seems safe to move forward, it is best to stick to a lower gear and keep the engine RPM up to prevent water from entering the exhaust and causing damage.
It is equally essential to ensure that the wiper blades are clean and that the wiper washer fluid is topped up to maintain visibility while driving in the rain. Properly working brakes are also important, as stopping distance tends to increase on wet surfaces. Drying the brake discs by lightly tapping the pedals intermittently after driving through large puddles can help ensure their effectiveness.
Driving in rainy weather can be challenging, as aquaplaning can occur, causing a layer of water to form between the wheel and the road. This condition can be dangerous as the vehicle can move side-wards, losing control over brakes and steering. If this happens, hold the steering wheel straight and gradually ease off the accelerator. As you slow down, your wheels should gain traction, and you will regain control of the vehicle.
It is also important to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front while driving in the rain to increase braking time, and to avoid using cruise control during this time. Furthermore, keeping snacks, water, and a tyre puncture kit handy can be helpful in case of an emergency during heavy traffic or floods.
In other news, two new vehicles have been launched in the Indian market. HOP OXO’s upgraded e-bike, priced at Rs 1.48 lakh (ex-showroom without subsidy), features an array of attractive and innovative features, such as a five-inch Advance Information Display with an IP67 rating for protection against dust, dirt, and water splashes. On the other hand, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has launched the new Shine 125, which is available in two variants– Drum & Disc and is priced at Rs 79,800 (ex-showroom Delhi).
Additionally, India’s largest luxury carmaker, Mercedes-Benz India, has launched the iconic and timeless AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ roadster version, priced from Rs 2.35 crore (All-India ex-showroom). The SL 55 4MATIC+ features a petrol V8 engine with twin turbochargers, with a top speed of 295km/h and a luxurious soft top, which sets it apart from its predecessors.
These new vehicle launches combined with valuable information for safe driving during monsoon season ensure a well-rounded news article on current topics in the automotive industry.
